How heat pumps create hot water out of thin air 

Every day, more Australians are embracing solar energy, but did you know not all homes are suitable for traditional solar systems? Heat pumps offer an innovative solution by harnessing renewable energy from the surrounding air to heat water instead of sunlight, providing an efficient and versatile alternative to solar.

How does a heat pump work? 

Heat pumps capture heat from the surrounding air to provide hot water. It works similarly to a reverse cycle air conditioner in that it uses a refrigeration system but is connected to a hot water tank. Here’s a simplified explanation:

• Heat Absorption: Ambient heat is drawn into the refrigeration system and passes through an evaporator coil, where the refrigerant, in the form of liquid, absorbs the heat and turns into vapour.
• Compressor: The vapour runs through a compressor, transforming it into a hot gas.
• Heat Exchanger: The hot gas passes through a microchannel heat exchanger, wrapped around the hot water tank, where it heats the water indirectly.
• Cycle Repeat: The refrigerant returns to a liquid state, and the cycle repeats.

Even during cold weather, the air contains some ambient heat that can be used. In freezing conditions, a heat pump’s electric boost function ensures a continuous supply of hot water, while a de-icing function prevents ice formation, avoiding potential damage.

Heat pumps are a reliable and efficient way to reduce water heating energy consumption and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. 

Why choose a heat pump? 

Here are three reasons why a heat pump may be the perfect solution for your home:  

1. Ideal alternative where traditional solar isn’t feasible

Some homes might not be suitable for a traditional solar system due to: 

• Excessive shade: trees, chimneys, and nearby buildings can impact solar energy production.

• Slate roofs: Slate is quite fragile and can be unsuitable for solar collectors.

• Roof orientation: For optimal performance, solar collectors need to face north. Collectors facing south, east, or west will not receive sufficient solar radiation. In fact, their efficiency decreases by approximately 10% to 15% when oriented east or west.

A heat pump is an excellent alternative for these homes as it does not require sunlight to operate. Heat pumps can often be installed as a replacement for your current storage water heater using existing plumbing and electrical connections. 

Your local Solahart Dealer can conduct a free in-home assessment to determine the right system for you, taking into account your home’s orientation, household energy requirements, and roof.

2. Eligible for Government Incentives

A common misconception is that renewable energy is too expensive upfront. However, not only is it an investment that pays off with energy savings over time, but heat pumps also qualify for Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs), reducing the purchase price and potentially saving you hundreds of dollars. Some states offer additional incentives to offset the upfront cost. Your local Solahart expert can deduct the value of the financial benefit at the point of sale.

3. Reduce your hot water energy usage and bills

Heating water is Australia's second-largest household energy use segment, accounting for up to 25% on average 1. By using the ambient heat in the atmosphere, heat pumps significantly reduce the energy needed during the heating process so that you can enjoy great energy savings.

About Solahart Heat Pumps 

Solahart has a range of heat pumps suitable for every home:  

Solahart Atmos®:

• A 325-litre capacity heat pump for families of up to five.
• Suitable for moderately cold climates (5°C to 43°C).
• Includes a 3.6kW boost element for additional requirements.
• Manufactured in Australia.

Solahart Atmos® Frost: 

• A versatile, 270-litre capacity heat pump for most climates, including cold, harsh water, and tropical conditions. Great option for medium to large families.
• Uses low Global Warming Potential (GWP) R513a refrigerant.
• Features advanced microchannel heat exchanger technology, allowing for faster, more efficient water heating.
• Includes a 2.4kW boost element and a Blue Anode option for harsh water conditions.
• User-friendly touch-screen control pad and LED display.

Solahart Atmos® Eco 180:

• 180-litre product ideal for those seeking an energy-efficient alternative to small—to medium-sized electric water heaters.
• Uses low-GWP R513a refrigerant.
• Advanced microchannel heat exchanger technology for faster, more efficient water heating.

Solahart Atmos® Eco 280:

• 280-litre heat pump water heater perfect households seeking an energy-efficient alternative to medium to large-sized electric water heaters.
• Uses ultra-low GWP R290 refrigerant.
• Features advanced microchannel heat exchanger technology for quick water heating.
• Includes a 2.4kW boost element and a Blue Anode option for harsh water conditions.

Watch this video to see how heat pumps use air to create hot water: